Strengthening Rural Governance for the Right to Adequate Food: Right to Food in Africa –Policy to Plate.

Right to food is one of the fundamental human rights recognized at both national and global level. In Kenya, right to food is a constitutional guarantee (Article 43 1 C and 53 1 C) but despite this, almost 30 percent of the population is undernourished. The consequences of food insecurity are far-reaching. Malnutrition rates among children under five remain alarmingly high, with 26% suffering from stunted growth, according to UNICEF. This not only affects their health but also their ability to learn and thrive, perpetuating cycles of poverty. Women, who are often the primary caregivers and food producers, bear the brunt of this crisis, with limited access to resources and decision-making power. These statistics paint a grim picture, but they also underscore the urgent need for innovative, collaborative, and sustainable solutions to ensure that every Kenyan has access to adequate food. 

This is why the launch of Phase 2 of the Strengthening Rural Governance for the Right to Adequate Food project in Vihiga County is such a significant milestone. Spearheaded by Welthungerhilfe (WHH) and The Institute for Social Accountability (TISA), funded by BMZ in collaboration with the Vihiga County Government, this initiative is a beacon of hope for addressing food insecurity through a rights-based approach. By focusing on governance, accountability, and community empowerment, the project is not only transforming lives in Vihiga but also setting a precedent for other counties to follow. 

The project’s second phase builds on the successes of Phase 1, which empowered over 23,700 stakeholders on their food rights and entitlements and strengthened governance structures on Grievance Redress Mechanism and public participation. Engaged in global policy processes where the Right to food agenda had been shelved. Phase 2 aims to deliver even greater impact by ensuring stronger policies and accountability, where duty bearers show accountability in their commitments and respond to the demands raised by the rights holders, especially those from marginalized groups and enact and implement inclusive policies that promote the Right to Food. It also focuses on amplified advocacy, integrating food rights into global policy processes to ensure the voices of vulnerable communities are heard. Additionally, the project empowers the Lake Region Food Systems Network and the Right to Food coalitions to engage decision-makers and push for inclusive legal frameworks, while fostering responsive leadership that prioritizes the needs of marginalized groups at the grassroots and national level. 

The initiative targets a wide range of stakeholders, including smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities, community leaders such as village elders, civil society actors and journalists, duty bearers at local, county, and national levels, and legislators and national/regional stakeholders. By involving these groups, the project ensures a holistic approach to food security, where everyone from grassroots communities to policymaker plays a role in creating a sustainable and inclusive food system. 

H.E. Wilberforce Kitiezo, Deputy Governor of Vihiga County, graced the launch event and expressed his gratitude to WHH and TISA for choosing Vihiga as one of the counties to implement this transformative project. He reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to supporting the initiative, ensuring its success and sustainability. “Phase 1 laid a strong foundation, and we are excited to build on its lessons in Phase 2. Together, we can ensure that every citizen has access to adequate food and that our leaders remain accountable to the people they serve,” he said. 

This project is not just about addressing food insecurity, it’s about creating a model for other counties to replicate. By strengthening rural governance, promoting accountability, and empowering communities, the initiative demonstrates how collaboration between civil society organizations, county governments, and international partners can drive meaningful change. It highlights the importance of integrating the Right to Food into policy frameworks and ensuring that vulnerable populations are prioritized in decision-making processes. 

For other counties grappling with food insecurity, this project offers a roadmap for success. It shows that sustainable solutions require more than just agricultural intervention they demand a governance approach that prioritizes accountability, inclusivity, and community participation. Counties like Turkana, which face severe food shortages, could benefit from similar initiatives by focusing on empowering local communities and holding leaders accountable. Even agriculturally rich counties like Nakuru and Uasin Gishu can learn from this model to address disparities and ensure equitable access to food resources. 

The Right to Food is a movement. Whether you’re a farmer, a community leader, a policymaker, or simply someone who cares about food security, your voice matters. Let’s work together to ensure that no one goes hungry and that every community thrives. 

What are your thoughts on this initiative? How can we collectively strengthen rural governance and ensure food security across Kenya? Share your ideas in the comments below.